Go! Online Job Searches
Episode #3 of the course Conducting an effective job search by Denise C. Allen
Glad that all systems are “go” and you’ve returned for Lesson 3. There are thousands of jobs available and most can be found online. As you find online job search sites as described here, register and create an applicant profile before beginning your search and update any existing profiles.
Using Job Boards and Search Sites
In an article on The Balance, career expert Allison Doyle explains that some search sites are considered job boards. This group includes Monster.com and CareerBuilder.com. Also, Glassdoor.com is a job board that has reviews and information on salaries, posted by its community of users. Keep in mind that you may find some of the same posts on various other sites.
Other listing sites contain search engines that, according to your criteria, find jobs from various job boards and put them in one list for your convenience. Indeed.com is one example. For instance, if you type in that you wish to become an administrative assistant in Madison, Wisconsin, the job board will provide a list of those submitted to that board, while the search engine sites would check many job boards to create a list.
Certain job boards are industry specific. Dice.com focuses on careers in technology. For accountants, FinancialJobBank.com is a good resource, while HealthcareJobsite.com targets jobs listings in the medical fields. Using an industry-specific site may help you avoid getting unrelated job listings from your search. It saves time to find a good site. Check it often.
Still another category of websites exists for those who want less traditional forms of work. On Upwork.com, clients who want to hire freelancers for short- or long-term projects post their requirements. FlexJobs.com is a site for people who want to work from home, work part time, or work on a flexible schedule. Note that FlexJobs has a monthly fee for its services. Part-time jobs can be found on SnagaJob.com.
Company and Organization Websites
In Lesson 1, you were advised to determine a geographic region as a target for work. Using that region, identify likely employers that might offer the types of job you seek. Find the employment website for each of these, search, and apply directly if possible. Large employers post jobs on their websites or direct you to the listing site. Consider companies, nonprofits, and government agency sites if they are relevant to your career field.
Professional Networking Sites
LinkedIn is the largest and most used site for professionals to connect. Search for people who work for companies of interest, and send requests to connect with them as part of your networking plan. You can send messages about your job hunt to those who connect with you. You can also search and apply for jobs through the LinkedIn jobs tab or on the LinkedIn jobs app that can be downloaded for direct access to the job search function.
Your industry of choice may have professional networking sites that are more beneficial than LinkedIn. Talk to other people in the field about sites they use. You’ll get information and network directly with someone who may know of an available opportunity.
Employment Agencies
Finally, you might consider checking the websites of employment agencies, staffing services, and government-run workforce centers. Staffing services hire workers to do jobs at the companies represented. The jobs are often temporary or part time. They can be a resource for jobs that turn into full-time opportunities. Get reviews from others before using these resources, and understand that some agencies will require a contract that commits you to being employed through them.
Government-run workforce centers in your state or region keep job listings online. While on the site, you might find other helpful resources for your job hunt, such as specialists who can help with your resume, interviewing skills, and other job search topics and assessments to help you find the best job match.
Searching for jobs online can be overwhelming. Set a schedule for yourself, determining how much time you’ll spend searching each week. Plan time for networking in your schedule. Learn more about networking in Lesson 4.
Recommended book
Do Over: Make Today the First Day of Your New Career by Jon Acuff
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